Prediction: Valencia vs Arsenal

Prediction: Valencia win

Best Odds: 10/11

Bookmaker: bet365

In the wake of Liverpool’s Champions League heroics last night, it’s time to look ahead to what could be a really fascinating second leg tie in Spain tomorrow night. Valencia will go one on one with Arsenal in their semi final tie, knowing that a 2-0 win is all they need to get through to the final. Arsenal, on the other hand, will be well aware of the fact that they’re in a vulnerable state courtesy of their league form – but you’d have to imagine they’ll still be the favourites to make it through to Baku.

Valencia

With their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League through La Liga looking slim, Valencia know that they need to do everything in their power to try and win this tie. It’s that desperation mode that can make or break a lot of teams, but given their recent 6-2 win, it certainly seems like they’re in the mood to go straight at their English opposition. They can’t afford to be sloppy, though, because Arsenal have some great attacking options of their own.

Team News

Coquelin missed out in the first leg through suspension, but could feature against his former club here. Kondogbia and Cheryshev are the only players missing through injury for the Spaniards.

Arsenal

The top four race is all but over for Unai Emery’s men, and that means one thing: the Europa League is their priority now. They’ve showcased what they’ve been able to do in the competition up to this point, and with just two games standing between them and Champions League football, it’s time to step on the gas. Aubameyang and Lacazette are going to be crucial to getting them through to the final, and from there, they should be viewed as the favourites.

Team News

Welbeck and Ramsey have already played their final game for the club due to injury, with Maitland-Niles being tipped to return to the starting XI after missing out against Brighton.

Factors to Consider

• In the first leg, Arsenal beat Valencia 3-1 at the Emirates.
• Valencia have won three and lost three of their last six games.
• Arsenal have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six games.
• Valencia have scored 13 goals and conceded 10 in their last six games.
• Arsenal have scored eight goals and conceded 11 in their last six games.

Conclusion

Arsenal never seem to make it easy for themselves, and the fact that this game is taking place away from home isn’t going to make things any easier for them and their fans. However, with Unai Emery knowing what is on the line for this football club, it really does feel like they’ll get the job done – but it’s going to be close. We think Valencia are going to take the lead, requiring just one more goal to go through to the final. They’ll be unable to get themselves over the finish line, and the Gunners will progress on aggregate.

Prediction: Valencia win

Best Odds: 10/11

Bookmaker: bet365